EFFECTIVE PLACEMENT AND DESIGN OF THE FOUR-BIN WASTE DISPOSAL SYSTEM IN LOBBY AND CLASSROOM AREAS AT DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY

Abstract

Dalhousie University currently diverts 60% of its waste from landfills, but in order to improve the University’s sustainability, a goal of 75% waste diversion has been set (Dalhousie University Office of Sustainability, n.d.). To assist with this goal of waste diversion, this study aims to examine the role of bin placement and signage in improving separation of waste. In order to evaluate student and custodial staff perspectives and attitudes about the waste management system at Dalhousie, written surveys were administered. Based on recommendations from surveys and the clients of this project, waste audits were completed in the Goldberg Computer Science Building and the Chemistry Building. One lobby and one classroom from each building were selected, and audits were conducted before and after changes were made to the location and signage. It was found that the organic and paper streams had the least amount of contamination while the recyclables and garbage had the greatest amount of contamination. After the changes were made to the four-bin systems, the most improved diversion was seen in recyclables. For Dalhousie University to reach its targets in waste diversion, it is recommended that more research should be completed.